New Zealand Embassy Tokyo, Japan

Cardboard Cathedral at Christchurch in New Zealand

What do you do when long standing and historic structures are destroyed or wiped out by natural disaster?” This is a question being faced in New Zealand and Japan as both countries rebuild their towns, cities and futures following the devastating natural disasters of 2011.

With longstanding and distinctive cultural traditions in both countries, both countries are revisiting intrinsic values and assets, as well as looking beyond borders to come up with the best solutions for the people affected by the disasters.

As part of efforts to rebuild the city center of Christchurch work is currently moving forward to replace the irreparably damaged iconic Christchurch cathedral. An innovative “cardboard cathedral” designed by prize winning Japanese architect Shigeru Ban is being constructed in its place. The 23m-high, six-storey structure will be supported by cardboard tubes. The new cathedral is expected to open next month. The new structure is symbolic of strong ties of friendship or “kizuna” that have emerged between our two countries following the disasters.